About the Union County ESC

The Union County Educational Services Commission (UCESC) is a public school district located in Westfield, New Jersey. The district was established in June, 1969 to provide high-quality and cost-effective educational programs and solutions in response to the needs of the students, parents, faculty and administration of the 21 member school districts in Union County.

Over the years, UCESC has been challenged by the growing number of students needing specialized instruction and by societal changes that have a dramatic effect on children’s lives. Today, UCESC serves more than 7,000 children throughout the state.

Our goal of helping students achieve independence, success in the workforce and obtain the skills necessary for 21st Century learners is achieved with innovative educational programs that address the unique needs of each student.

Crossroads School, Westlake School and Lamberts Mill Academy offer programs for students with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Multiple Disabilities, and Behavioral Disabilities. Students from Elizabeth have the opportunity to attend an Alternative High School setting at Hillcrest Academy North and Hillcrest Academy South. Transition services are offered through programs at our Work Readiness Academy. UCESC provides educational services to students in hospital settings at Trinitas Regional Medical Center and Children’s Specialized Hospital. In addition, UCESC provides basic skills and supplemental instruction to students who attend Nonpublic schools throughout Union County.

UCESC also provides extensive transportation services to all the school districts throughout Union County. Child Study Team support and professional development training is also offered to assist school districts meet the ever changing needs of students with disabilities.

As you can see, UCESC creates programs and services that assist school districts in providing educational support to students who have unique needs. We are always looking for ways to improve and enhance our services and to develop new programs that will provide the necessary support to the student, their family and the local school districts.